Security operatives at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Plateau State, successfully repelled an attempted attack on the institution on Wednesday night, killing one suspected assailant during a gun battle.
The attackers reportedly attempted to gain access to the institute at about 11 p.m. but encountered armed resistance from security personnel stationed at the facility.
Confirming the incident in a statement on Thursday, the Head of Public Affairs at NIPSS, Dr. Osime Samuel, said the attackers exchanged gunfire with security operatives but were forced to retreat following what he described as a swift and coordinated response.
According to the statement, one of the suspected attackers was killed during the exchange, while the remaining assailants fled the scene.
The institute stated that the attackers failed to breach its security perimeter, assuring that all participants of the Senior Executive Course, members of staff, residents, and facilities remained safe throughout the incident.
According to NIPSS, “NIPSS wishes to reassure participants, staff, residents and the general public that the security of lives and property within the institute remains our highest priority.
The institute further disclosed that security agencies have intensified efforts to track down and arrest the fleeing suspects, while surveillance and other security measures have been strengthened within and around the institution.
NIPSS also commended the professionalism and prompt response of security personnel whose actions prevented the attackers from gaining access to the facility.
The institute urged members of the public to disregard unverified reports capable of creating unnecessary panic, stressing that the situation has been brought under control.
The attempted attack comes only weeks after another reported effort by armed men to infiltrate the institute’s premises, raising renewed concerns about security around the country’s foremost policy and strategic research institution.
